MA Makes Nation’s Largest Offshore Wind Power Commitment!

I’m so proud to say that the Bay State, my home state, just made history. Late last night, in the final moments of the Massachusetts legislative session, leaders on Beacon Hill passed an energy bill equipped to finally launch America’s offshore wind industry!

This is great news for wildlife, and for all of us counting on our leaders to take swift, bold action to confront climate change. Massachusetts has stepped up to demonstrate just how offshore wind power can play a key role in addressing the massive energy and environmental challenges of our time.

Legislation passed last night commits the Commonwealth to bringing 1,600 megawatts of offshore wind power online. That’s enough clean, local energy to power more than half a million homeswhile creating thousands of long-term, high quality jobs.

Massachusetts will be on track toward a truly clean energy future – one where our energy portfolio reflects the need to protect our communities and wildlife from the dangers of climate change. The MA legislation’s commitment shows a prioritization of public health, clean air, and clean water – all while buffering ratepayers from the volatile fossil fuel market.

“The Massachusetts Legislature hit a home run tonight. All eyes are now on Governor Baker to sign the bill and make this pivotal commitment to offshore wind power a reality.”

Installation of the final turbine in the London Array, the world’s largest offshore wind power project to date. Photo by London Array Limited

This milestone has been a long time coming in Massachusetts. We have a world-class wind resource off our shores, ready to serve as the foundation for a new clean energy economy in the Commonwealth. While our neighbors across the Atlantic have been growing offshore wind power into a booming global industry for 25 years, we have yet to get a single turbine into U.S. waters (though that is changing this summer with the Block Island Wind Farm!).

Massachusetts’ leadership here is pivotal. With America’s first offshore wind project finally under construction, bold policy commitments from state leaders are precisely what’s needed to ensure this is truly the beginning of a new energy chapter. Among all of the lasting benefits listed above, what arguably makes this bill most significant is the example it will set.

Over the next decade and beyond, offshore wind power will replace retiring nuclear and coal-fired power plants in New England and show state leaders up and down the coast that we can power our homes and businesses with local, clean energy.

The Massachusetts legislature just turned the tide in a way that will unleash the nation’s largest untapped clean energy opportunity! It’s a new day, and a turning point in our endlessly important pursuit of a responsible energy future.

Of course, there is a long road ahead to get these turbines up and running, and the next step is getting this historic bill signed by Governor Charlie Baker. Please sign the petition below and share it with your friends in Massachusetts – let’s keep up this momentum!